As India aims to eradicate sickle cell disease by 2047, Gujarat’s longstanding program has become a leading example, having screened over 1.11 crore individuals in the state over the past two decades. The initiative, initiated in 2006 under the leadership of then Gujarat Chief Minister and current Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has been pivotal in addressing the hereditary blood disorder, especially prevalent among tribal communities. Under Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel’s administration, more than 23 lakh screenings have been conducted in the last five years, totaling over 1.11 crore screenings in Gujarat.
Gujarat presently has 30,512 registered patients under its sickle cell program, with an expanded healthcare network offering early diagnosis and treatment support. The state has equipped all Primary Health Centers with initial screening using DTT tests and deployed 41 High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) and mini-electrophoresis machines across 14 tribal districts. Additionally, dedicated day-care centers for sickle cell patients are operational in Valsad, Navsari, and Dang-Rumla, with enhanced financial aid through the Patient Assistance Scheme.
To prevent the transmission of genetic disorders to future generations, Gujarat has stationed 180 specialized counselors at Primary Health Centers. State Health Minister Praful Pansheriya has advocated for young individuals to ascertain their sickle cell status before marriage, emphasizing the significance of this test in determining genetic compatibility. Notably, Gujarat’s program has been lauded for effectively delivering healthcare services to remote tribal populations, setting a precedent for successful implementation in such areas.
Renowned scientist Dr. Yazdi Italia commended Gujarat’s program for its comprehensive approach towards sickle cell control, which includes free screenings, early diagnosis, genetic counseling, vaccination, medication availability, and regular follow-up services. This model, initiated in 2006, significantly reduced pain crises, complications, and hospitalizations among patients, serving as a blueprint for the National Health Mission’s adoption. The National Sickle Cell Anemia Elimination Mission, launched by the central government on July 1, 2023, aims to substantially reduce the disease burden by 2047, inspired by Gujarat’s successful framework.
